Why Hydration For Your Scalp Is Just As Important As Your Skin

When it comes to prepping our bodies for winter, we tend to focus on ensuring our skin stays hydrated in the face of gale force winds and plummeting temps. And while we’re busy stocking our bathroom cabinet with gradual fake tan and upping our moisturising regime to twice daily, our head and hair are often left neglected. But we’re here to remind you (yep, thank us later) that protecting your scalp in the chilly season is just as important. Here’s how you can do it in three simple steps.

1. Nom on some nourishment

Up your intake of the vitamins and minerals that support healthy hair. Your hair is made of protein, so to ensure it stays strong and lustrous stack your diet with lean meats, dairy products, eggs, legumes and nuts. Omega-3 fatty acids are super important in providing the natural oils that keep your scalp and hair hydrated so stock your fridge with salmon, sardines, avocado and pumpkin seeds. Vitamin A is essential for creating sebum, which prevents a dry, itchy scalp, so add sweet potato, carrots and kale to your meals.

2. Start at the source

According to a survey by Head & Shoulders, at least 79 per cent of Australians suffer from dandruff but the majority don’t seek proper treatment for their flakes. And winter weather can only exacerbate itchy scalps and that unsightly shoulder snow. Using a nourishing shampoo and conditioner like Head & Shoulders Dry Scalp Care will hydrate deep into the hair follicles to cleanse and protect against dandruff causing microbes. Their formula features moisturising almond oil, a gentle cleansing agent and micro zinc particles to hydrate and provide long lasting dandruff protection.

3. Treat yo self

Yo ends, that is. Take the time to put a deeply hydrating treatment on your tresses at least once a week. Not only is your hair subject to harsher elements in winter, you’re also more likely to be using heating tools like blow dryers as you don’t have the summer sun to let your locks dry naturally. This double whammy will dry out your ends quick smart, so lather on a conditioning mask and leave overnight if possible.